An exercise which combines intense aerobics and strength training in one fast-paced workout is known as circuit training. A prescribed set of exercises is given for a single program, and upon the completion of a single circuit, one performs the exercise all over again for another circuit. In circuit training, the time between exercises is short as one rapidly moves from one exercise to the next. There are usually ten exercise stations in a circuit training routine with each exercise taking no more than 60 seconds to complete with a 30-60 second rest interval between stations.

If you want to develop strength, flexibility, coordination and endurance, circuit training is just the right workout for you. It is versatile, efficient and challenging and has gained a huge following from all sectors of society who are conscious about staying fit. Athletes take advantage of circuit training workouts to prepare the body for more stressful routines. Fitness buffs simply do circuit training to stay fit and healthy. For those who have reached a plateau in their exercise program or others who are finding their routines such a bore, circuits offer a fun and exciting change.

Circuits offer a lot of advantages. For one, it does not require expensive gym equipment and can be easily adapted to suit the size of any workout area. Unlike some weight training routines that target only a specific muscle group and are generally done alone, circuits offer a full body workout in a small group setting where the more experienced in the circuit get the chance to assist beginners.

The nature of circuit training makes it ideal for those who wish to develop cardiovascular endurance and lose the excess pounds. However, it needs a bit of modification if one wants to use it as a means of building strength or developing muscle bulk. Reducing the number of repetitions to be performed and increasing weight for added intensity will make circuits more suited for muscle and strength training.

If you want to design your own personal circuit training workout, start by choosing exercises that will work your upper body, core and trunk, lower body and your total body. Don't forget to incorporate agility and endurance exercises as well as sprints to develop speed and mobility. Start your circuit with at least 6 to 8 exercises to comprise your own workout plan and figure out ahead of time where you're going to be doing them. Some examples of typical circuit training exercises which you might like to include are squats, jogging or walking, jumping rope, push ups, crunches and lunges. Make sure you have great shoes and upbeat music as well.

Your circuit training program can be accomplished in four weeks, on a gradually ascending degree of difficulty, with the first week being easy, the second medium and the third difficult. The fourth week can be the rest and recovery period.

Circuit training is no joke and it is certainly not for the faint of heart or those who have preexisting heart conditions (unless your physician has given you a clean bill of health). Make sure you consult your doctor first if you're unsure if your body can take the rigors of any circuit training regimen.